Zoey’s journey toward faith began with a Catholic upbringing, but her parents chose not to baptize her as a baby, allowing her to make her own decisions about her spiritual path. Growing up, church felt like a routine with her grandparents, but it didn’t hold much personal significance. It wasn’t until high school, especially during her senior year, that her faith journey took a pivotal turn.

Her tia moved in with Zoey’s family due to mental health issues, and during this time, they grew very close. This period was transformative for Zoey, marked by deep conversations and personal struggles. However, tragedy struck when her tia had a severe car accident, leading to brain trauma and a challenging time for Zoey.

Despite these hardships, Zoey’s faith began to stir. Encouraged by her grandparents and influenced by social media, she started exploring her spirituality more seriously. A TikTok video led her to a Bible reading plan on Spotify, and she began to dive into the scriptures, starting with the book of Genesis. This newfound interest in the Bible and its teachings began to reshape her perspective on life and faith.

College brought Zoey to Texas Christian University (TCU), where she hoped to find a supportive faith community. She attended TCU Catholic services but felt something was missing. It wasn’t until she met Haley and later Madeline, who played pivotal roles in her spiritual awakening, that things began to change. Haley’s invitation to a faith survey and subsequent meetings helped Zoey open up to the possibility of a deeper relationship with God.

Zoey’s journey culminated in a heartfelt acceptance of Jesus and a desire to be baptized. This decision was solidified during a Bible study session in an unconventional setting – the back of a car in a parking lot. The emotional moment when Madeline prayed for her marked a significant turning point. Zoey felt an overwhelming sense of peace and acceptance, realizing the presence of the Holy Spirit in her life.

The journey didn’t end there. Zoey’s commitment to her faith continued to grow, supported by her new friends and community. She found solace in knowing that she wasn’t alone and that God was actively working in her life. The experience of getting baptized was profound, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her faith journey.

Zoey’s story is a testament to the power of faith, community, and the unexpected ways in which God can work in our lives. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of doubt and struggle, there is always a path back to faith.

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